MNRE Allows Prototype Wind Turbines 3 Yrs For Testing

MNRE Allows Prototype Wind Turbines 3 Yrs For Testing

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued new draft guidelines stating that prototype wind turbines will be allowed a maximum of three years to obtain type certification for new technologies. These guidelines are part of MNRE’s latest framework for installing prototype wind turbine models.

According to the proposal, the installation of a prototype wind turbine model will be permitted solely for the purpose of type testing and obtaining certification from internationally accredited certifying agencies. The framework will be implemented by the National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE), Chennai.

Timeline Defined 

“A maximum period of 3 years from the date of issuance of the recommendation letter from NIWE for the prototype wind turbines will be allowed to complete testing and to obtain the type certificate. However, the validity of the prototype certificate shall be maintained until the type certificate is issued. In case of submission of a revised or modified prototype certificate for an existing prototype wind turbine model, and after obtaining a revised recommendation letter from NIWE to carry out type testing, the testing and certification must be completed, and the type certificate submitted within the validity period of the prototype certificate,” the new MNRE draft norms reads.

MNRE had previously issued guidelines for the installation of prototype wind turbines in 2012, which were amended twice—once in the same year and again in 2016. “The prototype certificate shall have a maximum validity period of 3 years. Extension of the prototype certificate validity may be allowed,” it added.

O&M Mandated

The draft also emphasizes the importance of regular operation and maintenance of these turbines. Failure to do so may result in disconnection from the grid.

“Regular maintenance and service shall be carried out for the prototype wind turbines installed. The type certification body will provide a letter at the end of the year regarding the regular operation and maintenance of the prototype wind turbines. Failing which, the wind turbines are liable to be disconnected from the grid,” it noted.

Further, the guidelines specify that all prototype wind turbines must be commissioned within 18 months from the date of issuance of the NIWE recommendation letter. Given the availability of high-capacity wind turbines such as 5.2 MW models in the Indian market, the draft suggests indicating the number of prototypes instead of specifying capacity in megawatts.